Work-life balance is quickly becoming a priority for workers at every level. From top executives to new grads in their first jobs, more and more people would rather work to live than live to work.

In the latest episode of Work Mom Says, young professionals Kiley Metcalfe and Molly Wagner joined me for a fantastic conversation about the top advice they wish they had at the beginning of their careers. During our discussion, they emphasized just how important a work-life balance is to both of them. 

I break down what a work-life balance is, how the culture has shifted, and more.

What is a work-life balance?

In the simplest terms, a work-life balance is when a person equally prioritizes their career and their personal life. It may look like logging off right at 5 PM and not looking at your email or work phone until the next morning. It might look like taking your PTO and sick days without feeling guilty.

During our conversation, Kiley offered her ideal work-life balance. “I want to wake up and be excited to do work and enjoy my day. I also want to have the energy when I log off to go get a drink with my husband or sit on Facetime with my friends or make plans for the weekend.”

This depiction of her ideal work-life balance may seem simple, but it’s not a reality for a lot of professionals.

No work-life balance is normal, but should it be?

There are a lot of companies out there that expect their employees to work 60-70 hours a week, answer emails at all hours of the day, and prioritize their career at the expense of their personal life.

Though she values a work-life balance now, Kiley says that she struggled to find the balance in past jobs. “ There was no balance. I had so many people telling me not to answer emails after five o’clock ever, and within the first week, I was doing that.”

Molly shared that she prioritizes a work-life balance because she has watched friends overextend themselves at work and leave no time for a personal life.

“My best friend is an entry level engineer at one of the big three, and she’s been busting her butt for the last six months, working long hours and weekends,” Molly said. “I’m worried that she’s going to burn out really quickly in her career and just absolutely hate it when this is what she’s wanted to do forever.”

This company culture is still very prevalent, but it’s up to you to set your own boundaries. If your company doesn’t respect those boundaries, it might be time to move on.

More workers are prioritizing the work-life balance

While there are still many companies placing ridiculous pressure on their employees, the culture is shifting, particularly at the employee level. More and more people are setting their own boundaries and fighting for that balance.

Don’t just take our word for it: new data from the Forbes Health-Ipsos Monthly Health Tracker shows that 90% of the 620 respondents said work-life balance is an essential part of their job.

In fact, more respondents noted work-life balance as an important aspect of their job than consistent hours (88%), an easy commute (86%), and a path for promotion and increased responsibilities (75%).

Find what feeds your soul

Work doesn’t feed your soul. It might feel like it does sometimes, but what really feeds your soul is your relationships. That’s why it’s essential to equally prioritize your career and personal life and find that balance.
For more tips and tricks on growing your career, check out the latest episode of Work Mom Says.